Buying help needed

Hi

I am brand new to mountain biking. Unless you count the few years I did it whenI was around 16 (Iím 32 now). I started running about a month ago and I've beenwaking up almost unable to walk due to heal pain the last few days so I wanttaking up riding.

Went to a few bike stores today and saw that I'm probably going to be spendingabout $399 for the cheapest set up they have. This is more than I would like tospend.

So I have a few questions.

1.) I know this may be a sin to even mention it on a serious mountain bikingforum, but should I even consider buying a department store bike? I can get onefor $100-$200. I know it will probablyfall apart, but it might keep me active while I save for something moreexpensive.